2014 marked a big year for fashion. From the return of turtlenecks to the evolution of menswear-inspired outfits, the range of trends that were birthed, and a lot of them rebirthed with modern spins, were innovative and definitely sparked discussion in the fashion community. There will be mixed reviews to everything, and when it comes to clothing, positions will vary greatly from person to person. Nevertheless, here are my personal opinions on the biggest fashion trends of 2014.
Worsts
Wide-Leg Pants:
Boyfriend jeans, I can get behind. But this? The wide-leg has been slowly ascending in the fashion world ever since Heidi Klum was spotted in various pairs. Though they do have their place on runways and celebrities, I find them incredibly impractical to the average person and — to be honest, quite unflattering as well.
’90s Revival:
It seems that the ’90s just will not die. For whatever reason, crops tops, slip dresses, and metallics continue to be spotted on fashion websites everywhere. As much as I love Clueless, the boxy and mundane style of the ’90s just does not appeal to me at all.
Socks and Sandals/Heels:
I love Birkenstocks, but my love for them drops tenfold when someone decides to wear a pair of socks with them. However, what I find even worse is the socks and heels trend. Louboutins and Nike athletic socks are not a match made in heaven. This trend is so incredibly tacky and has always been something that was considered unfashionable by many (so much that one of the top Google search results is “socks and sandals birth control”), and now it’s developed a following in the fashion world! What changed…?
Bests
Normcore:
Normcore can be best defined as dressing in a manner that is ordinary and uncomplicated. Outfits like this mostly consist of a palate of neutrals, sportswear, and are overall casual and comfortable. I’ll admit that this fashion movement does take elements from the fashion “worsts” that I listed above, but the modern spirit that normcore embodies is what begs its forgiveness from me. Though I’m not a follower of “pure” normcore (white sneakers, light-wash mom jeans, plain top… You get the idea), I find the embellished style wearable and chic. Another bonus, getting to dress in shades instead of colours makes me infinitely happy.
Menswear Inspired:
The feminist movement reached newfound popularity this year and where the crowd sways, fashion follows. Trousers, brogues and blazers were all over the runways in 2014, as well as the streets. I’m in love with how classy and put-together a menswear inspired outfit can look, plus, it channels my personal style quite a lot and I find gives me a sense of empowerment that is linked to the feminist movement.
Turtlenecks:
The return of the turtleneck was one that was joked about quite a lot online. Personally though, I find that the rebirth of turtleneck was not only a reintroduction, but also a revamp on the classic style. New, not to mention chic, styles of turtlenecks and sensible ways to wear them have emerged and differ greatly from how they were treated in the late 20th century. When done right, a turtleneck sweater brings an element of coziness and professionalism to an outfit and can be just as cute as a snood scarf, not to mention just as comfortable.
Disclaimer: these are honest opinions fueled by my brain and are not meant to offend anyone in any way. Remember, true fashion is wearing what makes you happy!
Cover Image: dustjacket-attic.com
Hui, What an informative post, thanks!